Former Notre Dame running back Audric Estime is fresh off of a fantastic 2023 season, which was the ideal ending to his career in the blue and gold. The 5-11, 227-pound runner finished his junior campaign with 1,341 yards and 18 touchdowns. That rushing touchdown total set a record for a single season total for Notre Dame.
Estime opted to declare early for the 2024 NFL Draft, leaving a year of eligibility on the table. He now heads to Indianapolis, Indiana later this week to participate in the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine. A lot is on the table for the New Jersey native, who hopes to impress all the NFL scouts, decision makers and coaches in attendance.
Here is what Estime has on the line this week.
CURRENT PROJECTION
In terms of 2024 hierarchy, Estime is at least in the conversation to potentially be the first running back off the board in April. The sweet spot for Estime right now feels like the third round, give or take a round either way. There seems to be a very high floor with the former Irish star, providing an outstanding baseline of power, explosiveness and vision to the table. Estime is well liked in NFL circles.
WHAT’S ON THE LINE AT THE COMBINE?
Estime is a player that is categorized as a power back, which is true but can also undersell his athleticism. The Combine will offer an opportunity for Estime to showcase that he’s more than the stereotype. People will love to talk about the forty-yard dash, and it would be great to see Estime surprise people in that department.
One part of Estime’s game that remains in question is his flexibility and change of direction ability. Can Estime be an asset in the passing game and make plays consistently in space? The short shuttle and three cone drill will be able to showcase if there is any upside still to tap into.
Here are some potential numbers that Estime could be aiming for in Indianapolis. Anything better than these numbers would be a massive victory. Overall it’s about checking as many boxes as possible.
40-Yard Dash: 4.52-4.56 seconds
Vertical Jump: 33-35 inches
Broad Jump: 10 feet, 4 inches
3-Cone Drill: 4.1 seconds
Short Shuttle: 6.9 seconds
NEXT STEP
The Notre Dame Pro Day is scheduled for March 21st, giving Combine participants the opportunity to improve on their testing numbers if they wish. That’s the next major event on the schedule for Estime. Depending how he does in Indianapolis, he could take part in the testing. If not, he will more than likely do some of the position drills. It’s another opportunity for Estime to get in front of NFL scouts and decision makers. From there, it’s about the Top 30 visits with the prospective organizations.
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